Jordan Blackwell, local owner of JH Photography, says her greatest priority with photography-related clients is having great relationships.
"I value the people I get to photograph and the memories they trust me to capture. Photography makes my heart happy," Jordan says.
She's been photographing weddings and families for eight years. "I absolutely adore photographing children and babies as well. I recently opened a studio portion to my business for headshots and newborns as well," she says.
With at least 75% of Jordan's clients being returning ones, she gets to grow along with them through life, from their marriages to children—and multiple children. For any photo session, she recommends deciding whether the overall, intended feeling should be casual, formal, rustic or seasonal. For groups, she says it's also good to match complementary colors but to have one person in a solid color and others with a coordinating pattern.
Jordan enjoys experimenting with new locations and session themes. "There are so many beautiful locations in our area that can be used in many ways. When it comes to young children, I also have a room full of props and blankets for families to use in their sessions. I always ask for any inspiration the clients might have for their session and do my best to make them possible," Jordan says.
"No matter what happens in life, photographs take you back to a moment that will never change."
Styling Tips
—Use backgrounds that have a good contrast with the main objects, ones that highlight photo subjects without overpowering and competing with subjects.
—Watch lighting sources, especially as they affect faces.
—Add a themed and deliberately selected prop to give a memorable moment of a milestone, date or event.
Posing Tips
—Always, always monitor and "pose" hair.
—Have people point their ears slightly forward, which naturally engages chins to provide a flattering facial angle—sometimes called turtling in the photo world.
—Leave visual space by waists.